LOS ANGELES - According to Oregon State coach Craig Robinson, this is a new era in Oregon State basketball.

“We’re going to be really young,’’ Robinson said. “But this is the start of how I think you’ll see Oregon State teams play in the future.’’

The Beavers will be much more athletic team, as Robinson said he no longer will dictate the tempo so heavily with his slow-down offense.

“I’ve kind of let go of he reins some on what they can do offensively,’’ Robinson said. “In the past we dictated the tempo a little bit with our offense. I think we’ll do that a little less this year.’’

Robinson said Roberto Nelson will play this season, whether it’s at the start of the season, or whether he will have to wait until Dec. 10.

The Beavers also will work in Ahmad Starks, a diminutive player who has drawn comparisons to former Oregon guard Tajuan Porter with his three-point shooting range.